Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
Prepare to satisfy your sweet tooth like never before with these mouthwatering Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars. A decadent combination of crunchy Butterfinger candy, rich caramel, and a buttery shortbread crust, this recipe is a true candy-lover’s dream come true. Whether you’re craving a sweet snack or an indulgent dessert, these bars are sure to leave you craving more.
The irresistible blend of Butterfinger’s signature peanut butter-flavored crunch and the gooey, caramelized sweetness is truly a match made in heaven. Biting into these bars is like experiencing a candy shop in every single bite, making them the perfect treat for any occasion.
❤️ Why You’ll Love This Recipe ❓
What sets these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars apart is the incredible texture contrast. The crisp, buttery shortbread base provides a sturdy foundation, while the Butterfinger pieces add a satisfying crunch that perfectly complements the smooth, gooey caramel topping. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures that will have you reaching for another bite.
The best part? This recipe is remarkably easy to make, using mostly pantry staples. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, you’ll be able to whip up a batch of these irresistible bars with minimal effort. Plus, they can be made ahead of time and frozen, making them the perfect go-to treat for when a sweet craving strikes.
🛒 What You Need to Prepare Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars ❓
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup chopped Butterfinger candy bars (about 6 fun-size bars)
The beauty of this Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars recipe is that most ingredients are pantry or freezer staples. The combination of buttery shortbread, creamy caramel, and crunchy Butterfinger pieces creates the irresistible flavor profile that has made candy-inspired recipes perennially popular.
📝 How to Make Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars Step-by-Step ❓
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Use a fork or your fingers to mix the ingredients until a crumbly dough forms.
• Step 3: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, making sure to create a uniform base layer.
• Step 4: Bake the shortbread crust for 15-18 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
• Step 5: Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the warm shortbread crust, spreading it evenly to the edges.
• Step 6: Sprinkle the chopped Butterfinger candy pieces over the caramel layer, pressing them down gently to adhere.
• Step 7: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the Butterfinger pieces are lightly toasted.
• Step 8: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.
⏱️ Timing Overview
• Cooking time: 30-38 minutes
• Total time: 45-53 minutes
Compared to traditional candy bars, which can take up to an hour to prepare, this Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars recipe saves you over 30% of your cooking time while delivering similar indulgent flavors.
👩🏻⚕️ Nutritional Information
Per serving (based on 12 servings):
• Protein: 4.5g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fat: 14g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 135mg
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars provide approximately 10% of your daily carbohydrate requirements and 20% of your daily fat needs, making them a decadent treat that can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
🔄 Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe
• Lower-carb version: Substitute the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour to reduce the carbohydrate count, and use a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk.
• Dairy-free adaptation: Replace the butter with a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil or vegan butter, and use a dairy-free sweetened condensed milk.
• Added protein: Sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts or almond slivers over the caramel layer for an extra protein boost.
• Boost vegetables: Mix in a tablespoon of unsweetened cocoa powder to the shortbread crust for a hint of chocolate flavor.
These modifications can reduce calories by up to 20% or adapt the recipe for specific dietary needs without compromising the fundamental candy-inspired flavor profile of the Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
• Pair with a cup of hot coffee or a glass of cold milk for a perfect snack-time pairing.
• Complement the bars with a fresh fruit salad or a light green salad for a balanced dessert or snack.
• For a festive occasion, create a Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bar platter with additional candies, nuts, and a drizzle of melted chocolate.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Not pressing the Butterfinger pieces firmly: If the Butterfinger pieces aren’t pressed down into the caramel layer, they may not adhere properly and could slide off when cutting the bars.
• Cutting the bars before they’re fully cooled: Trying to cut the bars while they’re still warm can result in a messy, crumbly texture. Be sure to let the bars cool completely before slicing for clean, neat squares.
🧊 Storing Tips for the Recipe
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars retain their quality remarkably well:
• Freezing unbaked: Prepare the shortbread crust and caramel layers as directed, but do not bake. Wrap the pan tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, remove the pan from the freezer, unwrap, and bake as directed.
• Freezing baked: Allow the baked bars to cool completely, then cut into squares. Wrap each square individually in plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, unwrap and place on a baking sheet in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
❓ FAQs
Can I make these Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars ahead of time?
Absolutely! These bars can be made up to 1 week in advance. Simply store the cooled, cut bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve. You can also freeze the unbaked or baked bars for up to 3 months, making them a convenient make-ahead option.
Can I substitute the Butterfinger candy bars with another type of candy?
Yes, you can definitely use other types of candy bars or chocolate pieces in place of the Butterfinger. Some great alternatives include Snickers, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups, or chopped Hershey’s milk chocolate bars. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will be slightly different depending on the candy you choose.
Are there any dairy-free or low-carb options for this recipe?
Yes, there are a few modifications you can make to adapt this recipe for dairy-free or low-carb diets. For a dairy-free version, use a dairy-free butter substitute and a non-dairy sweetened condensed milk. For a lower-carb option, replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour and use a sugar-free sweetened condensed milk.
What should I do if the caramel layer doesn’t set properly?
If the caramel layer seems too soft or runny after baking, try placing the pan in the refrigerator for 30 minutes to an hour to help the caramel firm up. You can also try increasing the baking time by an additional 5-10 minutes to ensure the caramel has enough time to fully set.
Can I add any additional ingredients or mix-ins to this recipe?
Absolutely! These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars are incredibly versatile and can be customized in various ways. Try adding a sprinkle of chopped peanuts, a drizzle of melted chocolate, or a pinch of sea salt to enhance the flavors. You can also swirl in a layer of dulce de leche or peanut butter for an extra indulgent twist.
Conclusion
These Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars represent the perfect balance of convenience, flavor, and presentation. Whether you’re serving them as a decadent dessert or a sweet snack, they’re sure to impress with their irresistible combination of crunchy Butterfinger, rich caramel, and buttery shortbread. The versatility of this recipe allows for countless variations to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, these candy-inspired bars demonstrate that sophisticated flavors don’t require complicated techniques – just quality ingredients and a little bit of care in the baking process. So, indulge in the ultimate Butterfinger experience and treat yourself (or your loved ones) to a batch of these irresistible Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars today.
Print
Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
- Total Time: 45-53 minutes
Ingredients
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 (14 ounce) can sweetened condensed milk
• 1 cup chopped Butterfinger candy bars (about 6 fun-size bars)
Instructions
• Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8×8-inch baking pan and set it aside.
• Step 2: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, softened butter, granulated sugar, and salt. Use a fork or your fingers to mix the ingredients until a crumbly dough forms.
• Step 3: Press the dough evenly into the prepared baking pan, making sure to create a uniform base layer.
• Step 4: Bake the shortbread crust for 15-18 minutes, or until it’s lightly golden brown. Remove it from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes.
• Step 5: Pour the sweetened condensed milk over the warm shortbread crust, spreading it evenly to the edges.
• Step 6: Sprinkle the chopped Butterfinger candy pieces over the caramel layer, pressing them down gently to adhere.
• Step 7: Return the pan to the oven and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the caramel is bubbly and the Butterfinger pieces are lightly toasted.
• Step 8: Remove the pan from the oven and let the bars cool completely before cutting into squares.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-38 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Cuisine: Americans
Keywords: Butterfinger Caramel Crunch Bars
